MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III is calling on nations to work together in tackling problems affecting their peoples, foremost among them are climate change and conflicts.
“A solely inward-looking approach to governance is doomed to fail; any responsible country knows that it must also work alongside its brother nations to address the world’s problems,” he said during the Vin D’ Honneur in Malacanang attended by members of the diplomatic corps for the celebration of Philippine Independence on Thursday.
President Aquino said it is imperative for countries to address the adverse effects of climate change now affecting many people around the world.
“Despite the Philippines being recognized as a country with a very small carbon footprint, like many island countries, we bear a disproportionate burden when it comes to the ravages of climate change. Can my country afford to be silent about the effects of global warming — when it has already affected the lives of so many people from all across the globe?” he said.
To build peace and security, the Chief Executive said the Philippines has an active contingent in the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Force in the Golan Heights despite its limitations.
President Aquino noted that the international community similarly provided assistance to the Philippines throughout its peace process, and for communities affected by super typhoon ‘Yolanda’.
“Each of our countries is beset with its own internal problems. But at the same time, we recognize that no comprehensive solution can be reached, without also taking into consideration the problems that the global community faces. None of us can realize our goals in isolation,” he said.
President Aquino underscored the need to strike a “fine balance” to avoid interfering in others’ affairs.
“This can be achieved by rendering genuine and meaningful assistance, rather than by imposing our own views and policies on others — this can be achieved through sincere cooperation,” he said.
“Indeed: the world is united by more than just the interconnectivity afforded by technology; we are united by a commonality of purpose: how to overcome inequality, injustice, and conflict, and thus foster lasting progress, peace, and stability in an environment that truly upholds the rule of law,” the President added.
The Chief Executive urged countries to continue maximizing cooperation and avenues for dialogue in realizing aspirations for their people.
”Together, we have the best chance of eliminating our common problems. Divided, we may have no chance at all,” he said.